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Today, VA disability expert Brian Reese reveals and explains the Top 80 High Value Secondary VA Claims Commonly Rated at 30% or Higher!
A “high value” VA disability claim is a condition that has a high likelihood of being rated at 30% or higher on its own (e.g., a mental health secondary condition rated at 70% or a migraines secondary claim rated at 50%).
With all secondary VA claims, it’s highly recommended that you get a Nexus Letter to help prove the connection between the two conditions for secondary service connection.
Okay, without further ado, let’s begin!
Table of Contents
List of the Top 80 High Value Secondary VA Claims and Their Ratings
Anxiety Secondary to Tinnitus
Tinnitus, the constant ringing or buzzing in the ears, often leads to heightened emotional distress and difficulty concentrating. This chronic annoyance can trigger anxiety disorders, manifesting as restlessness, irritability, or sleep disturbances. VA Ratings for Anxiety Secondary to Tinnitus (Multiple Diagnostic Codes under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%, based on the severity and impact on occupational and social functioning.
Asthma Secondary to GERD (Acid Reflux or Heartburn)
GERD can worsen asthma by causing stomach acid to enter the airways, resulting in inflammation and breathing difficulties. This direct relationship between the conditions can significantly impair respiratory health. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to GERD (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, based on medication requirements and frequency of symptoms.
Asthma Secondary to Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea disrupts normal breathing patterns during sleep, increasing airway inflammation and exacerbating asthma symptoms. Veterans with both conditions may face compounding respiratory issues. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, depending on severity and treatment needs.
Asthma Secondary to Depression
Depression can indirectly worsen asthma by impairing self-care and medication adherence. Chronic stress and inflammation linked to depression may also contribute to asthma flare-ups. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Depression (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, based on symptom severity.
Asthma Secondary to Anxiety
Chronic anxiety often causes hyperventilation and airway constriction, mimicking or exacerbating asthma symptoms. This creates a physiological connection that can increase the severity of both conditions. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Anxiety (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, depending on functional impact.
Asthma Secondary to Allergies
Allergic reactions can trigger asthma by causing airway inflammation and restricting airflow. This is particularly common for veterans with environmental or seasonal allergies. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Allergies (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, based on symptom frequency and medication use.
Asthma Secondary to Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps obstruct the upper airway, leading to difficulty breathing and worsening asthma symptoms. Their removal or management is often necessary to improve respiratory health. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Nasal Polyps (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, determined by the severity of asthma symptoms.
Asthma Secondary to Vocal Cord Dysfunction (Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction)
Vocal cord dysfunction causes abnormal vocal cord movement, restricting airflow and exacerbating asthma-like symptoms. This interplay can significantly impair a veteran’s quality of life. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Vocal Cord Dysfunction (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, based on functional limitations.
Asthma Secondary to Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome
Asthma-COPD overlap syndrome combines features of both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, leading to severe respiratory symptoms and decreased lung function. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, depending on treatment intensity and lung function tests.
Asthma Secondary to Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis, a condition causing airway widening and mucus buildup, often worsens asthma by increasing inflammation and infections. This combination can lead to severe respiratory impairment. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Bronchiectasis (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, depending on symptom severity.
Asthma Secondary to Diabetes
Diabetes can indirectly contribute to asthma by increasing systemic inflammation and reducing the body’s ability to fight respiratory infections. This connection can lead to worsening asthma control. VA Ratings for Asthma Secondary to Diabetes (Diagnostic Code 6602): 10%, 30%, 60%, or 100%, depending on symptom frequency and required treatments.
Depression Secondary to Tinnitus
Chronic tinnitus often leads to depression due to the persistent noise and its effects on sleep, concentration, and quality of life. This emotional toll can significantly affect mental health. VA Ratings for Depression Secondary to Tinnitus (Multiple Diagnostic Codes under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%, based on functional impairments.
Depression Secondary to Migraines
Severe migraines can trigger depression due to the chronic pain and social isolation caused by frequent debilitating episodes. The resulting mental health issues can significantly impact a veteran’s daily life. VA Ratings for Depression Secondary to Migraines (Multiple Diagnostic Codes under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%, depending on severity.
Fibromyalgia Secondary to IBS
Fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often coexist, with overlapping symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal distress. Veterans with both conditions may experience a compounded impact on daily functioning. VA Ratings for Fibromyalgia Secondary to IBS (Diagnostic Code 5025): 10%, 20%, or 40%, depending on symptom severity and frequency.
Fibromyalgia Secondary to Migraines
Chronic migraines can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms by intensifying pain and fatigue, leading to increased physical and emotional distress. This interaction significantly impacts a veteran’s overall health. VA Ratings for Fibromyalgia Secondary to Migraines (Diagnostic Code 5025): 10%, 20%, or 40%, based on the presence of widespread musculoskeletal pain.
Fibromyalgia Secondary to Interstitial Cystitis or Painful Bladder Syndrome
Painful bladder conditions can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms by increasing systemic inflammation and overall physical discomfort. The combination of conditions can severely impair daily activities. VA Ratings for Fibromyalgia Secondary to Interstitial Cystitis (Diagnostic Code 5025): 10%, 20%, or 40%, depending on frequency and intensity of symptoms.
Fibromyalgia Secondary to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders cause chronic facial pain and jaw dysfunction, which can amplify the widespread pain and tenderness associated with fibromyalgia. This connection worsens the veteran’s overall quality of life. VA Ratings for Fibromyalgia Secondary to TMJ Disorders (Diagnostic Code 5025): 10%, 20%, or 40%, based on symptom severity.
Fibromyalgia Secondary to Anxiety
Chronic anxiety can worsen fibromyalgia symptoms by increasing muscle tension and amplifying pain sensitivity. Veterans may experience heightened physical discomfort and reduced functionality. VA Ratings for Fibromyalgia Secondary to Anxiety (Diagnostic Code 5025): 10%, 20%, or 40%, based on the presence of widespread musculoskeletal pain and other symptoms.
Fibromyalgia Secondary to Depression
Depression can exacerbate fibromyalgia by reducing pain tolerance, increasing fatigue, and impairing the ability to cope with chronic symptoms. The combined effect significantly impacts daily living. VA Ratings for Fibromyalgia Secondary to Depression (Diagnostic Code 5025): 10%, 20%, or 40%, based on symptom frequency and intensity.
Fibromyalgia Secondary to Postural Tachycardia Syndrome
Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) involves an abnormal heart rate response to standing, which can intensify fibromyalgia symptoms like fatigue and pain. This interaction compounds the challenges faced by veterans. VA Ratings for Fibromyalgia Secondary to POTS (Diagnostic Code 5025): 10%, 20%, or 40%, based on functional impact.
GERD Secondary to Asthma
Asthma can exacerbate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by increasing abdominal pressure and weakening the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to chronic acid reflux. VA Ratings for GERD Secondary to Asthma (Diagnostic Code 7206): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, or 80%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
GERD Secondary to PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can aggravate GERD by triggering stress-related acid production and reducing gastrointestinal function. This combination can lead to chronic reflux symptoms. VA Ratings for GERD Secondary to PTSD (Diagnostic Code 7206): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, or 80%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
GERD Secondary to Depression
Depression can worsen GERD by impairing appetite regulation, leading to overeating or poor dietary habits that exacerbate acid reflux. Stress-induced acid production also contributes. VA Ratings for GERD Secondary to Depression (Diagnostic Code 7206): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, or 80%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
GERD Secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety often causes gastrointestinal symptoms, including GERD, by increasing stomach acid production and reducing digestive efficiency. This interplay significantly impacts veterans’ digestive health. VA Ratings for GERD Secondary to Anxiety (Diagnostic Code 7206): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, or 80%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
GERD Secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications for service-connected conditions, such as NSAIDs or antidepressants, can lead to GERD as a side effect by irritating the stomach lining or increasing acid production. VA Ratings for GERD Secondary to Medication Side Effects (Diagnostic Code 7206): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, or 80%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Hypertension Secondary to Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea often leads to hypertension by causing repeated drops in blood oxygen levels, which strain the cardiovascular system and elevate blood pressure. VA Ratings for Hypertension Secondary to Sleep Apnea (Diagnostic Code 7101): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, based on diastolic and systolic readings.
Hypertension Secondary to PTSD
The chronic stress associated with PTSD can lead to hypertension by maintaining elevated stress hormone levels, which increase blood pressure over time. VA Ratings for Hypertension Secondary to PTSD (Diagnostic Code 7101): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, based on diastolic and systolic readings.
Hypertension Secondary to Kidney Disease
Impaired kidney function can lead to hypertension by disrupting the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. VA Ratings for Hypertension Secondary to Kidney Disease (Diagnostic Code 7101): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, based on diastolic and systolic readings.
Hypertension Secondary to Diabetes
Diabetes increases the risk of hypertension by damaging blood vessels and impairing their ability to dilate, which elevates blood pressure. VA Ratings for Hypertension Secondary to Diabetes (Diagnostic Code 7101): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, based on diastolic and systolic readings.
Hypertension Secondary to Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism causes increased metabolism and heart rate, which can elevate blood pressure over time, leading to chronic hypertension. VA Ratings for Hypertension Secondary to Hyperthyroidism (Diagnostic Code 7101): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, based on diastolic and systolic readings.
Hypertension Secondary to Lupus
Lupus can cause hypertension by triggering inflammation in blood vessels, leading to vascular damage and increased blood pressure. VA Ratings for Hypertension Secondary to Lupus (Diagnostic Code 7101): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, based on diastolic and systolic readings.
Hypertension Secondary to Scleroderma
Scleroderma, a condition that thickens and hardens connective tissues, can lead to hypertension by damaging the blood vessels and kidneys. VA Ratings for Hypertension Secondary to Scleroderma (Diagnostic Code 7101): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, based on diastolic and systolic readings.
IBS Secondary to PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder can exacerbate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by increasing gut sensitivity and stress-related gastrointestinal dysfunction, leading to chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. VA Ratings for IBS Secondary to PTSD (Diagnostic Code 7319): 10%, 20%, or 30%, depending on symptom severity and frequency.
IBS Secondary to Depression
Depression can worsen IBS by altering gut-brain communication, leading to increased abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation. VA Ratings for IBS Secondary to Depression (Diagnostic Code 7319): 10%, 20%, or 30%, depending on symptom severity and frequency.
IBS Secondary to Anxiety
Chronic anxiety often disrupts normal digestive function, worsening IBS symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. VA Ratings for IBS Secondary to Anxiety (Diagnostic Code 7319): 10%, 20%, or 30%, depending on symptom severity and frequency.
IBS Secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications for service-connected conditions, such as antidepressants or pain relievers, can cause or worsen IBS symptoms by affecting gut motility and sensitivity. VA Ratings for IBS Secondary to Medication Side Effects (Diagnostic Code 7319): 10%, 20%, or 30%, depending on symptom severity and frequency.
Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to Tinnitus
Tinnitus, often linked to Meniere’s syndrome, contributes to the hallmark symptoms of vertigo, hearing loss, and balance issues. VA Ratings for Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to Tinnitus (Diagnostic Code 6205): 30%, 60%, or 100%, based on the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can exacerbate Meniere’s syndrome symptoms, including vertigo and balance difficulties, by disrupting auditory input to the brain. VA Ratings for Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to Hearing Loss (Diagnostic Code 6205): 30%, 60%, or 100%, depending on symptom severity and frequency.
Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to Migraines
Migraines can trigger or worsen Meniere’s syndrome symptoms, such as dizziness and nausea, due to shared neurological pathways. VA Ratings for Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to Migraines (Diagnostic Code 6205): 30%, 60%, or 100%, based on symptom frequency and functional limitations.
Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to TBI
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can damage the inner ear or brain regions responsible for balance, leading to or worsening Meniere’s syndrome symptoms, including vertigo and hearing loss. VA Ratings for Meniere’s Syndrome Secondary to TBI (Diagnostic Code 6205): 30%, 60%, or 100%, depending on the impact on daily living.
Migraines Secondary to Tinnitus
Tinnitus can lead to migraines due to the constant stress and sensory overload from persistent ringing in the ears. Migraines caused by tinnitus can be debilitating. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Tinnitus (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on the frequency and severity of prostrating attacks.
Migraines Secondary to Cervical Strain
Cervical strain, often linked to neck injuries, can trigger migraines by causing tension and nerve compression in the neck and head area. This can result in chronic headaches. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Cervical Strain (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on the impact on daily activities.
Migraines Secondary to GERD
The discomfort and stress caused by GERD can trigger migraines due to the shared neurological pathways between the gut and brain. These migraines can lead to severe functional limitations. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to GERD (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on the frequency of prostrating attacks.
Migraines Secondary to IBS
Chronic pain and stress associated with IBS can contribute to migraines due to the gut-brain connection, leading to severe headaches and nausea. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to IBS (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, depending on attack frequency and severity.
Migraines Secondary to PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder can lead to migraines by increasing tension, stress, and hyperactivity in the nervous system. These migraines can severely disrupt daily functioning. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to PTSD (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on prostrating attack frequency.
Migraines Secondary to Insomnia
Insomnia, by disrupting sleep patterns and increasing stress levels, often triggers migraines. Veterans with chronic insomnia may experience frequent and debilitating headaches. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Insomnia (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, depending on the impact on the veteran’s life.
Migraines Secondary to Depression
Depression can worsen migraines due to increased stress hormones and reduced pain tolerance, leading to frequent and severe headaches. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Depression (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on prostrating episode frequency.
Migraines Secondary to Anxiety
Anxiety can cause migraines through heightened tension and nervous system overactivity, leading to severe and recurrent headaches. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Anxiety (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, depending on severity and functional impairment.
Migraines Secondary to TBI
Traumatic brain injuries often result in chronic migraines due to damage to brain structures or nerves. These migraines can significantly impair a veteran’s quality of life. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to TBI (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on the level of disability.
Migraines Secondary to Medication Side Effects
Medications for other service-connected conditions, such as pain relievers or antidepressants, can trigger migraines as a side effect. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Medication Side Effects (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on the frequency and severity of episodes.
Migraines Secondary to Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s disease can cause migraines due to the inner ear disturbances affecting balance and sensory input, which can lead to debilitating headaches. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Meniere’s Disease (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, depending on the functional limitations.
Migraines Secondary to Fibromyalgia
The chronic pain and stress associated with fibromyalgia often lead to migraines, which can exacerbate the condition’s overall impact. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Fibromyalgia (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, depending on frequency and severity.
Migraines Secondary to Heart Disease
Heart disease can lead to migraines due to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, resulting in frequent and severe headaches. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Heart Disease (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on prostrating episodes.
Migraines Secondary to Asthma
Asthma, by reducing oxygen levels and causing inflammation, can trigger migraines, which significantly impair functionality and quality of life. VA Ratings for Migraines Secondary to Asthma (Diagnostic Code 8100): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50%, based on symptom impact.
Plantar Fasciitis Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions
Musculoskeletal conditions like back, hip, or knee problems can alter gait, leading to plantar fasciitis by putting additional strain on the foot’s arch. VA Ratings for Plantar Fasciitis Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions (Diagnostic Code 5269): 10%, 20%, or 30%, depending on unilateral vs. bilateral, symptom severity, and the need for assistive devices.
Radiculopathy Secondary to Back Pain
Back pain can lead to radiculopathy by compressing spinal nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs. VA Ratings for Radiculopathy Secondary to Back Pain (Multiple Diagnostic Codes): 0% to 90%, depending on the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Radiculopathy Secondary to Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
Lumbosacral or cervical strain can compress or irritate nerves in the spine, leading to radiculopathy with symptoms such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the limbs. VA Ratings for Radiculopathy Secondary to Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain (Multiple Diagnostic Codes): 0% to 90%, depending on the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Radiculopathy Secondary to Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis narrows the spinal canal, compressing nerves and causing radiculopathy. Symptoms often include radiating pain, weakness, or numbness in the arms or legs. VA Ratings for Radiculopathy Secondary to Spinal Stenosis (Multiple Diagnostic Codes): 0% to 90%, depending on the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Radiculopathy Secondary to Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis, a condition where one vertebra slips over another, can cause nerve compression and radiculopathy. This leads to pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs. VA Ratings for Radiculopathy Secondary to Spondylolisthesis (Multiple Diagnostic Codes): 0% to 90%, depending on the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Radiculopathy Secondary to Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects the spine, can cause nerve compression and radiculopathy, resulting in pain and functional limitations. VA Ratings for Radiculopathy Secondary to Ankylosing Spondylitis (Multiple Diagnostic Codes): 0% to 90%, depending on the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Radiculopathy Secondary to Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion surgery can sometimes result in nerve compression or damage, leading to radiculopathy with symptoms like pain, weakness, or numbness. VA Ratings for Radiculopathy Secondary to Spinal Fusion (Multiple Diagnostic Codes): 0% to 90%, depending on the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Radiculopathy Secondary to Vertebral Fracture or Dislocation
Vertebral fractures or dislocations can compress spinal nerves, causing radiculopathy. This condition often presents as pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs. VA Ratings for Radiculopathy Secondary to Vertebral Fracture or Dislocation (Multiple Diagnostic Codes): 0% to 90%, depending on the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Back Condition
Back conditions, especially those involving nerve compression, can contribute to restless leg syndrome (RLS), causing uncontrollable leg movements and discomfort. VA Ratings for Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Back Condition (Diagnostic Code 8620): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Neck Condition
Neck conditions can sometimes lead to nerve issues contributing to restless leg syndrome, resulting in disrupted sleep and quality of life. VA Ratings for Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Neck Condition (Diagnostic Code 8620): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Medication Side Effects
Certain medications for service-connected conditions can cause or exacerbate restless leg syndrome, leading to discomfort and sleep disturbances. VA Ratings for Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Medication Side Effects (Diagnostic Code 8620): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, which affects nerve function in the limbs, can lead to restless leg syndrome, causing discomfort and movement issues. VA Ratings for Restless Leg Syndrome Secondary to Peripheral Neuropathy (Diagnostic Code 8620): 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Sleep Apnea Secondary to PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder can lead to sleep apnea by increasing stress and weight gain, which contributes to airway obstruction during sleep. VA Ratings for Sleep Apnea Secondary to PTSD (Diagnostic Code 6847): 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the need for a breathing device such as a CPAP machine.
Sleep Apnea Secondary to Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis can cause nasal blockages, leading to obstructive sleep apnea by restricting airflow during sleep. VA Ratings for Sleep Apnea Secondary to Sinusitis (Diagnostic Code 6847): 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the need for a breathing device such as a CPAP machine.
Sleep Apnea Secondary to Rhinitis
Rhinitis, which causes nasal inflammation, can exacerbate airway obstruction and lead to sleep apnea. VA Ratings for Sleep Apnea Secondary to Rhinitis (Diagnostic Code 6847): 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the need for a breathing device such as a CPAP machine.
Sleep Apnea Secondary to Deviated Septum
A deviated septum can obstruct nasal airflow and contribute to sleep apnea, significantly impairing sleep quality. VA Ratings for Sleep Apnea Secondary to Deviated Septum (Diagnostic Code 6847): 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the need for a breathing device such as a CPAP machine.
Sleep Apnea Secondary to Asthma
Asthma can contribute to sleep apnea by causing airway inflammation and obstruction, leading to disrupted sleep patterns. VA Ratings for Sleep Apnea Secondary to Asthma (Diagnostic Code 6847): 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the need for a breathing device such as a CPAP machine.
Sleep Apnea Secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link
Weight gain and obesity, often linked to service-connected conditions, can contribute to sleep apnea by increasing airway pressure and obstruction. VA Ratings for Sleep Apnea Secondary to Weight Gain Obesity as Interim Link (Diagnostic Code 6847): 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the need for a breathing device such as a CPAP machine.
Sleep Apnea Secondary to GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease can lead to sleep apnea by causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways during sleep. VA Ratings for Sleep Apnea Secondary to GERD (Diagnostic Code 6847): 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the need for a breathing device such as a CPAP machine.
Somatic Symptom Disorder Secondary to Tinnitus
The constant stress and discomfort caused by tinnitus can result in somatic symptom disorder, leading to excessive focus on physical symptoms. VA Ratings for Somatic Symptom Disorder Secondary to Tinnitus (Multiple Diagnostic Codes under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and level of occupational and social impairment.
Somatic Symptom Disorder Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions
Chronic pain from musculoskeletal conditions can lead to somatic symptom disorder, where physical symptoms dominate the veteran’s life. VA Ratings for Somatic Symptom Disorder Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions (Multiple Diagnostic Codes under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms and level of occupational and social impairment.
Vertigo Secondary to Tinnitus
Tinnitus can lead to vertigo due to disruptions in the inner ear, causing balance issues and dizziness. VA Ratings for Vertigo Secondary to Tinnitus (Diagnostic Code 6204): 10% or 30%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Vertigo Secondary to Migraines
Migraines can contribute to vertigo through neurological disruptions, leading to dizziness and balance problems. VA Ratings for Vertigo Secondary to Migraines (Diagnostic Code 6204): 10% or 30%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Vertigo Secondary to Medication Side Effects
Medications for service-connected conditions can cause vertigo as a side effect, disrupting balance and causing dizziness. VA Ratings for Vertigo Secondary to Medication Side Effects (Diagnostic Code 6204): 10% or 30%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Vertigo Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions
Musculoskeletal conditions, especially in the neck and spine, can lead to vertigo due to nerve compression and disrupted sensory input. VA Ratings for Vertigo Secondary to Musculoskeletal Conditions (Diagnostic Code 6204): 10% or 30%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Vertigo Secondary to TBI
Traumatic brain injuries can lead to vertigo by damaging inner ear structures or the brain’s balance centers, resulting in dizziness and coordination issues. VA Ratings for Vertigo Secondary to TBI (Diagnostic Code 6204): 10% or 30%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
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About the Author
Brian Reese
Brian Reese is a world-renowned VA disability benefits expert and the #1 bestselling author of VA Claim Secrets and You Deserve It. Motivated by his own frustration with the VA claim process, Brian founded VA Claims Insider to help disabled veterans secure their VA disability compensation faster, regardless of their past struggles with the VA. Since 2013, he has positively impacted the lives of over 10 million military, veterans, and their families.
A former active-duty Air Force officer, Brian has extensive experience leading diverse teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy and earned his MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, where he was a National Honor Scholar, ranking in the top 1% of his class.
